Seventh and eighth graders in the student Activities Council at Oyster Bay High School organized, conducted and managed a walk-a-thon for breast cancer awareness on May 15 at Roosevelt Park in Oyster Bay. Close to $12,000 was raised, with all proceeds presented to representatives of the American Cancer Society and the Susan G. Komen Foundation on June 11. "I'm told this breaks the record of the amount of money raised in an Oyster Bay High School charity fundraiser," said Deanna Rondello, guidance counselor, who serves as advisor to the Student Activities Council along with John Andriaccio.

During the check presentation ceremony, Catherine Solar, president of the Student Activities Council said, "I had no idea how much work was going to be put in and how many people were going to get involved. To be able to stand here today and present these checks is what we have dreamed about all year. This has been the most rewarding yet challenging experience in my life. Knowing that the seventh and eighth grade Student Council has made even the slightest difference is something that each and every one of us will always treasure."

Kate Applequist, treasurer of the Student Activities Council, presented checks to Nicole Rubin, executive director of the Susan G. Komen Foundation, and Jaime Byers, director of special events for the American Cancer Society. In thanking the group, Ms. Rubin said, "You are starting so young in your lives to make a difference."

"The students worked hard in securing a permit from the town, recruiting a disc jockey, and advertising the event," said Ms. Rondello.

They also were successful in getting donations," she added. Parents donated water, donuts, bagels and T-shirts in addition to raffle items and monetary contributions. Local businesses provided gift certificates and raffle items and hung fliers in their shop windows. "The Oyster Bay community was kind-hearted in giving donations and the community banned together and greatly contributed to the success of our walk-a-thon," she said.